Citizens Bank CEO Justin Harper Passes Away

Justin Harper, President and CEO of Citizens Bank of Las Cruces, passed away Oct. 13, 2014, at his home. He was 68.

Under his leadership, Citizens Bank enjoyed major growth and success. He joined Citizens Bank as a Senior Vice President in 1988. In 1993, he was appointed Executive Vice President of the bank and joined its Board of Directors. His tenure as President and CEO began in 1996.

Justin continued the bank’s commitment to remaining a true hometown bank. The bank was proud to use his own creation on its billboards: “We have roots, not just branches.” He was committed to local lending, to growing Las Cruces and Truth or Consequences, and to helping both communities.

George Ruth, current Senior Vice President of Citizens Bank, has been named interim President. A memorial service was held on Saturday, Oct. 18, at the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces.